The Essential Handbook of Polymer Terms and Attributes

127 Photochromic Polymers

DOI: 10.1201/9781003161318-127

Photochromic polymers are polymers with photochromic groups incorporated into the macromolecule.

The phenomenon of photochromism is defined as a reversible transformation of a chemical species between two isomeric forms, induced by the absorption of light, which results in a change of absorption spectra (color).

Photochromic molecules include triarylmethanes, stilbenes, azastilbenes, nitrones, fulgides, spiropyrans, naphthopyrans, spiro-oxazines, quinones, and others.

Photochromic molecules can be chemically bonded or dissolute to the macromolecule to form a photochromic polymer. Figure 127.2 is a typical example.

Applications:

Photochromic polymers are useful in optical data storage, ...